As the automotive industry evolves, so too do the tools that support it. With more people relying on mobile devices, GPS systems, dashcams, and electric vehicles (EVs), a reliable car charger in the UK is now considered an essential accessory for drivers. Whether you're charging a smartphone on the go or ensuring your EV is road-ready, car chargers offer convenience, flexibility, and peace of mind.
In this article, we’ll explore the different types of car chargers, their benefits, where to buy them, and what to consider when choosing the best one for your needs in the UK.
Why You Need a Car Charger
The modern driver depends heavily on electronic devices—mobile phones for navigation, music streaming, or hands-free calls, as well as tablets and USB-powered gadgets for passengers. A car charger ensures that these devices stay powered throughout your journey.
For electric vehicle (EV) owners, car chargers take on an even more vital role, as they are the primary means of refuelling your car. Whether it’s a home wall box or a public fast charger, keeping your EV battery topped up is essential.
Types of Car Chargers Available in the UK
There are two broad categories of car chargers in the UK:
1. USB Car Chargers (for Phones and Gadgets)
These plug into your vehicle’s 12V cigarette lighter socket and are used to charge smartphones, tablets, dashcams, and other small electronics. Options include:
Single-Port USB Chargers – Simple, low-cost, and ideal for solo drivers.
Dual/Triple-Port Chargers – Allow multiple devices to charge at once.
Fast Chargers (Quick Charge or PD) – Support rapid charging for compatible devices.
Wireless Car Chargers – Combine charging with phone mounts, perfect for drivers using phones for navigation.
2. EV Car Chargers (for Electric Vehicles)
These are used to recharge electric cars and come in various formats:
Home EV Chargers (Wall Boxes) – Installed at home for regular overnight charging.
Public EV Chargers – Found in supermarkets, petrol stations, and car parks across the UK.
Portable EV Chargers – Plug into standard 3-pin sockets and serve as backups or for emergencies.
Features to Look for in a Car Charger
Choosing the right car charger in the UK depends on your specific needs. Here are key features to consider:
For USB Car Chargers:
Output Power: Look for at least 2.1A per port or fast-charging standards like QC 3.0 or USB-C PD.
Compatibility: Ensure it works with your phone brand and cable type.
Build Quality: A charger with a compact design and heat-resistant materials is ideal.
Safety Features: Look for overcharge, short-circuit, and surge protection.
For EV Car Chargers:
Power Output: Most home chargers are 7kW, while fast public chargers go up to 50kW or more.
Connector Type: Type 2 is standard for most EVs in the UK.
Smart Features: Wi-Fi/Bluetooth-enabled chargers can schedule charging and monitor usage via apps.
Grants: The UK government offers financial support via schemes like the EV Chargepoint Grant for eligible homeowners or renters.
Top Car Charger Brands in the UK
Here are some trusted brands known for high-quality car chargers:
USB Car Charger Brands:
Anker – Known for reliable, fast-charging USB accessories.
Belkin – Offers premium, Apple-certified chargers.
UGREEN – Popular for affordable, multi-port chargers.
Aukey – A great choice for compact, high-output car chargers.
EV Car Charger Brands:
Rolec EV – A leading UK manufacturer of residential and commercial EV chargers.
Zappi (myenergi) – British-made smart EV charger with solar compatibility.
Pod Point – One of the UK's most popular home EV charging solutions.
Wallbox – Offers sleek, high-performance home and commercial chargers.
Where to Buy Car Chargers in the UK
Car chargers are widely available both in physical stores and online:
Halfords – Offers a broad range of car chargers, including EV solutions.
Amazon UK – Great for comparing features and customer reviews.
Argos – Sells USB and wireless car chargers at competitive prices.
Screwfix and Toolstation – Stock EV chargers for homes and businesses.
Official EV suppliers – Brands like Pod Point and Zappi sell directly and through installers.
Cost of Car Chargers in the UK
USB Car Chargers: Start from as little as £5 and go up to £30 for premium fast-charging models.
Home EV Chargers: Typically range from £500 to £1,000, including installation. Government grants can offset the cost by up to £350.
Public EV Charging: Some locations offer free charging, but rapid chargers usually cost £0.25–£0.75 per kWh.
Final Thoughts
Whether you drive a petrol-powered car and want to keep your phone charged, or you’re fully electric and need reliable EV charging at home or on the go, choosing the right car charger in the UK ensures a smoother, more efficient driving experience. With a wide range of chargers available—from affordable USB models to advanced EV smart chargers—there’s a solution for every type of driver.
As the UK continues to embrace a more connected and electric future, investing in a dependable car charger isn't just a convenience—it’s an essential part of modern motoring.
